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Description
Hypericum Nummularioides, commonly known as Creeping St. John’s Wort or Aaron’s Beard, is a low-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the Hypericaceae family. It is native to western and central Europe and can grow up to 6 inches tall and spread up to 20 inches wide. The plant produces small, bright yellow flowers that bloom from June to August, followed by small, oval-shaped leaves that are green in color and can turn reddish in winter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Hypericaceae |
| Genus | Hypericum |
Appearance
Creeping St. John’s Wort is a low-growing shrub that forms a dense mat of foliage. The plant has small, oval-shaped leaves that are green in color and can turn reddish in winter. The leaves are arranged oppositely along the stem and have a smooth texture. The plant produces small, bright yellow flowers that bloom from June to August. The flowers have five petals and are about 1 inch in diameter. The plant’s fruits are small, brown capsules that split open when ripe to release numerous tiny seeds.
Care Guide
Hypericum Nummularioides is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during dry spells.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Creeping St. John’s Wort is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Creeping St. John’s Wort is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to fungal infections in humid conditions. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:- Powdery mildew: A fungal infection that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide.- Leaf spot: A fungal infection that causes circular brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.- Aphids: Small insects that suck the sap from the leaves. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Hypericum Nummularioides is native to western and central Europe and can be found in open woods, rocky places, and meadows. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hypericum Nummularioides toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
Q: Can I grow Hypericum Nummularioides in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has well-drained soil and receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Hypericum Nummularioides?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in early spring to promote healthy growth.
Q: How do I propagate Hypericum Nummularioides?
A: The plant can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in spring or early summer and rooting them in moist soil.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Hypericum Nummularioides:- Hypericum Calycinum- Hypericum Perforatum- Hypericum Androsaemum- Hypericum Hidcoteense- Hypericum Moserianum
References
– “Hypericum Nummularioides.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 April 2021.
